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Mr Wilson said: "In the House of Commons there are plenty of places where women if they want to breastfeed their children can do it without being under the glare of the cameras in the Commons chamber, bringing children into the Commons chamber."

He told the BBC's Nolan Show: "This kind of voyeurism (exhibitionism), to an extent that is how it would be viewed in some cases.

"If you have somewhere else to go why do you have to come into the House of Commons chamber, have it on film and everything else, when there is somewhere else you can give your child its needs?

East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson made the claims on the BBC's Nolan Show (Image: Liam McBurney/PA Wire)

"It's voyeuristic (exhibitionist) if you have got an opportunity to do it somewhere which is much more private away from the glare of the public and the cameras etc.

To me, anyone who chooses to do it in the chamber rather than who do it in the quietness of their office, is doing it for reasons other than simply feeding the child, to make a point."

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It added: "This move would enable all members to fully participate in House business. Members may well sit in the chamber and in committees for a number of hours either listening to a debate or waiting to speak.

"In addition to allowing members to carry out their representative functions, permitting entry to infants would have symbolic benefits - showcasing the Commons as a role-model parent-friendly institution. It is accordingly recommended."

Mr Wilson said serious debates were held in the Commons about the laws of the country.

"Because of the confrontational nature of the debates, it is not a place you want to bring youngsters into anyway."

A DUP spokesman said his comments represented a personal view.

"We recognise that the benefits of breastfeeding are well established, with a positive impact on both babies and mothers.